Home to the historic red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse and the Whalehead Club. Features a mix of developed beaches with amenities and remote 4×4-accessible areas. Known for its natural beauty and wild horses.
Untouched barrier islands accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat. Features the iconic diamond-patterned Cape Lookout Lighthouse, historic Portsmouth Village, primitive camping, and the best shelling in North Carolina.
Famous for its wild Spanish mustang horses that roam freely along the shoreline. Features wide, uncrowded beaches, the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and upscale vacation rentals. Many areas require 4×4 vehicles for access.
Historic park at the southern tip of Maryland’s western shore where the Potomac River meets Chesapeake Bay. Features a beach area, fishing pier, boat launch, campground, and Civil War museum. Entry fee required with spectacular water views.
Quiet beach community at the southernmost tip of New Jersey featuring Cape May Lighthouse, Sunset Beach, and Cape May Bird Observatory. Known for dolphin watching, cape may diamonds, and spectacular sunsets. Beach tags required.
Quiet beach with historic Sea Girt Lighthouse (1896) and one-mile non-commercial boardwalk. Features the Sea Girt Pavilion with dining and gathering spaces. Known for its affluent residential character. Beach badges required.
Part of Gateway National Recreation Area with seven miles of ocean beaches, biking paths, and hiking trails. Includes Gunnison Beach (clothing-optional), fishing areas, and the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse.
18-mile-long barrier island with multiple beach communities offering diverse experiences. Features the Barnegat Lighthouse, Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and family-friendly atmosphere. Beach badges required in most areas.
A small beach beneath the historic Nobska Lighthouse with views of Martha’s Vineyard and Vineyard Sound. Features interesting tide pools and underwater rock formations for snorkeling enthusiasts.
A picturesque beach beneath the historic Chatham Lighthouse with views of the constantly changing Chatham Bar and Atlantic Ocean. Popular for seal watching and long beach walks.